Some noises are just part of your car's normal operations. However, once you hear weird noises, sounds that you are not accustomed to hear, there could be problems in your car. You should not ignore these sounds and more often than not, you need to go to your auto repair shop as soon as possible for a performance tuning or repair. Here's what to look for when observing engine noises.

What Do You Hear?

The type of the sound that you hear gives some clue as to what component of your vehicle has a problem. For example, clicking and tapping sounds are usually a problem in low oil pressure. Check your oil pressure gauge and dipstick oil to make sure that there is enough oil in the engine. Grinding engine noise reflects problems in your brakes or worn out brake parts. When there is a metal grinding against the cylinders, you must have your brakes replaced in an auto repair shop. Deep knocking sound is a more worrisome one as it indicates problem in one of the deep parts of your car's engine. Rod knocking gives early warning that the bearings are about to fail. Should you experience rod knowing, you should not use your car and have it checked in a performance tuning shop until the knocking engine noise has been diagnosed and repaired.  

When Do You Hear It?

The timing of the sound also reflects the type of problem your car might probably have. Squealing sound when accelerating usually indicates a problem in your fan belt that is already loose or worn out. Any loud sound when turning a corner reflects a problem relating to the steering linkage; either it needs lubricating or is damaged and needs replacement. Grinding sound when shifting could be a problem in the clutch; either it is worn out or requires adjusting. Chunking when braking could be a problem in the brake caliper or any other hardware in your car's brake system that is damaged, missing, or misaligned.

Where Do You Hear It?

The origin of the sound, of course, reflects the source of problem too. If you hear a rattling sound from beneath the vehicle, it could mean loose exhaust system and loose brake pads. Popping sound in the engine compartment could mean problems in the fuel filter or worn out spark plugs.

All vehicles have normal sounds when operating—a sound that drivers usually call as their car's "personality." When weird sounds starts kicking in, listen and observe what, when, and where you hear these sounds. If you think it concerns your car's safety system and other important parts, go to your nearest auto repair shop to have the sound checked, diagnosed, and properly repaired.